1. Introduction: What Is the Spain Spouse Visa?
The Spain Spouse Visa (also known as the Spain Family Reunification Visa) allows foreign nationals married to a Spanish citizen or a legal resident of Spain to join them in the country. This visa grants the non-EU spouse the right to live and work in Spain and is typically the first step toward residency. This guide covers the eligibility criteria, application process, and tips for successfully obtaining a Spain Spouse Visa.
2. Who Needs a Spain Spouse Visa?
A Spain Spouse Visa is required if:
- You are married to a Spanish citizen or legal resident and want to live with them in Spain.
- You are from outside the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland. EU/EEA and Swiss nationals do not require a visa to join their spouse in Spain but may need to register with the Spanish authorities.
3. Benefits of the Spain Spouse Visa
The Spain Spouse Visa offers several advantages:
- Right to Reside and Work: Allows you to live and work in Spain legally.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: After residing in Spain for five years, you may apply for permanent residency.
- Access to Spanish Healthcare and Social Services: As a legal resident, you can benefit from Spain’s healthcare and social services.
- Opportunity for Spanish Citizenship: After residing in Spain for a certain period (typically one year if married to a Spanish citizen), you may apply for Spanish citizenship.
4. Eligibility Requirements for the Spain Spouse Visa
To qualify for the Spain Spouse Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Valid Marriage: You must be legally married to a Spanish citizen or a foreign resident with legal status in Spain. Proof of a genuine marriage is required.
- Age Requirement: Both you and your spouse must be at least 18 years old.
- Sufficient Financial Means: Your sponsoring spouse in Spain must demonstrate they can financially support you, meeting a minimum income requirement.
- Accommodation: Proof that your spouse has adequate housing in Spain to accommodate you both.
5. Required Documents for the Spain Spouse Visa Application
The documents required for the Spain Spouse Visa application include:
- Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
- Marriage Certificate: Original marriage certificate, often translated into Spanish and possibly legalized or apostilled, depending on your country of origin.
- Proof of Spanish Residency: Your spouse’s DNI (Spanish citizen ID) or residence permit if they are a non-EU resident.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, employment contract, tax records, or other documents proving your spouse meets the minimum income requirement.
- Proof of Accommodation: Evidence that your spouse has housing in Spain, such as a rental agreement, property deed, or a letter from the landlord.
- Medical Certificate: Certifying that you do not have any contagious diseases.
- Police Clearance Certificate: A background check from your home country, translated into Spanish and possibly apostilled.
6. How to Apply for the Spain Spouse Visa
The Spain Spouse Visa application process involves several steps:
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all the required documents, ensuring they are translated into Spanish and apostilled where necessary.
- Submit the Application at a Spanish Consulate: Apply at the Spanish consulate in your home country or country of residence. Some consulates may require an appointment.
- Attend a Visa Interview: You may be asked to attend an interview where you’ll answer questions about your relationship and your intent to live in Spain.
- Wait for a Decision: Processing times can vary, typically taking 1–3 months.
- Enter Spain and Apply for a Residence Card: Once your visa is approved and you enter Spain, apply for a residence card (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero, or TIE) at your local immigration office within 30 days.
7. Financial Requirements for the Spain Spouse Visa
Your spouse in Spain must meet certain income requirements to sponsor you:
- Minimum Income Threshold: The minimum income requirement generally depends on Spain’s Public Income Indicator (IPREM). As of 2024, this is approximately €600 per month for the sponsor and an additional 50% of this amount for each dependent.
- Acceptable Sources of Income: Income from employment, self-employment, pensions, savings, or investments are generally accepted. Your spouse may need to provide recent pay slips, tax returns, and bank statements.
8. Spain Spouse Visa Fees
The fees for the Spain Spouse Visa vary by nationality and country of application, but generally, it’s around €60–€150. Confirm the specific fee at your local consulate, as payment methods and costs may vary.
9. Processing Time for the Spain Spouse Visa
The Spain Spouse Visa usually takes 1–3 months to process, but this can vary by consulate. Applying well in advance of your intended travel date is advisable.
10. Applying for a Residence Card (TIE) in Spain
After arriving in Spain on a Spouse Visa, you must apply for a residence card (TIE) to confirm your legal status in the country:
- Make an Appointment: Schedule an appointment with the nearest immigration office or police station.
- Submit Biometric Information: Provide your fingerprints and a recent passport-sized photo.
- Receive Your TIE: After approval, you’ll receive your TIE card, which serves as proof of your residency in Spain.
11. Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship
With a Spain Spouse Visa, you may become eligible for permanent residency and, potentially, Spanish citizenship:
- Permanent Residency: After five continuous years of legal residence in Spain, you may apply for permanent residency.
- Citizenship for Spouses of Spanish Citizens: If married to a Spanish citizen, you may be eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship after one year of legal residency.
12. Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I work in Spain with a Spouse Visa? Yes, the Spouse Visa allows you to live and work in Spain legally.
- What if my spouse is not a Spanish citizen? You can still apply for the Family Reunification Visa if your spouse is a legal resident of Spain, although requirements may vary.
- How long does it take to get the residence card (TIE) in Spain? The TIE application usually takes 2–4 weeks to process after submitting your application in Spain.
13. Conclusion
The Spain Spouse Visa offers a straightforward way for non-EU spouses to join their partners in Spain and enjoy residency rights, including the right to work. By following the steps carefully and ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate, you can increase your chances of a smooth and successful application. This visa can also open doors to permanent residency and, eventually, Spanish citizenship, making it an excellent choice for those looking to build a future in Spain.